TORONTO, February 12, 2003 – The 2004 Subaru Impreza strikes an aggressive new performance stance thanks to influence from Subaru Tecnica International (STI) and the Subaru World Rally Team. In addition, the head-turning new design, which the Impreza lineup shares with the new high-performance Impreza WRX STi, is as functional as it is striking, helping reduce wind resistance, optimizing lift force balance and improving engine cooling.

The first samples of the 2004 Impreza lineup – the WRX and powerful new
ImprezaWRX STi – were unveiled today at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto. The entire 2004 Impreza lineup, however, including the 2.5 TS Sport Wagon, 2.5 RS Sedan and the Outback Sport will all reap the performance benefits of the sleek new front- and rear-end design.

“While the Impreza WRX STi is aimed at the performance driving enthusiast, anyone who drives a 2004 Impreza will benefit from the success of our motorsports experience and technology,” said Norio Osakabe, chairman, president and CEO of Subaru Canada, Inc. “Every model in this lineup is a clear winner.”

Changes to the front end start with the addition of larger headlights, now combined in a 4-element arrangement to create a bolder, more aggressive appearance. To maximize airflow, Subaru World Rally Team designers added sharp edge character lines beginning at the headlamp and grille area and extending them onto the redesigned hood. All 2004 Imprezas have revised air inlets on the front fascia and projector beam halogen fog lamps as standard equipment. The tail lights and rear bumper are also redesigned and, as always, WRX is available as both a Sedan and a Sport Wagon.
Inside, Impreza WRX gains new sport-design front bucket seats with integrated head restraints. A redesigned instrument panel places the prominent tachometer in the centre. Silver trim rings surround the new gauges.

Enhanced seat fabric improves the comfort and appearance of the driver-optimized cockpit, which includes a standard leather-wrapped MOMO® steering wheel and a new colour-matched audio faceplate. Also new for 2004, Impreza WRX is available with an optional power glass moonroof.